8-Day Explorer Mekong Trail

Duration

8- Days

Location

Phnom Penh- Kampong Cham- Kratie-Mondulkiri-Preah Vihear-Siem Reap

Level

Moderate challenging

8-Day Explorer Mekong Trail Itinerary

 

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and pristine natural landscapes. This meticulously planned itinerary offers a blend of city exploration, river adventures, and jungle treks, ensuring a rewarding experience from start to finish.

Day 1: Welcome to Phnom Penh

  • Arrival: A driver will meet you at Phnom Penh International Airport and transfer you to your hotel.
  • Check-In: Rooms become available at 2:00 PM. If you arrive early, simply drop your luggage at reception and explore the city or relax in the hotel lounge.
  • Evening: Enjoy a free day to unwind and adjust to your new surroundings.

 Itinerary Details

Day 2: Phnom Penh to Kratie via Kampong Cham

  • Morning Departure: Pick up from your hotel at 8:00 AM after breakfast.
  • Scenic Drive: Travel by car towards Kratie Province with a layover in Kampong Cham.
  • Gastronomic Stop in Skuon: Savor local specialties in Skuon, famously known as “Spiderville” for its deep-fried tarantulas and other grilled insects.
  • Countryside Views: Stop at Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei hills to enjoy panoramic views over the Mekong and the rural landscape, along with visits to modern temple sites.
  • Bamboo Bridge: Admire the bamboo bridge across the Mekong River that connects the mainland to Koh Pen Island (visitable during the dry season, January–May).
  • Kratie Arrival: Check in at your hotel in Kratie and enjoy a free afternoon.
  • Guided Tour (Starting at 8:30 AM the next day):
    • Meet your English-speaking guide to learn about Kratie’s local lifestyle.
    • Explore the central market, view colonial-era architecture, and visit Wat Rokakandal with its 400-year-old wooden carving.
    • Discover local industries such as a mushroom farm, rice processing, brick making, and the production of bamboo sticky rice and rice noodles.
    • Enjoy a lunch break at a local restaurant in Kampi.
    • Dolphin Cruise: Board a local boat for a guaranteed viewing of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong. Kayaking options are also available (November–May).

Day 3: Transfer to Mondulkiri

  • Morning Transfer: Depart for Mondulkiri and settle into your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely day at your own pace and explore the surroundings.

Day 4: Jungle Trekking & Elephant Sanctuary Experience

  • Morning Session (Starting at 8:00 AM):
    • Begin with an introduction to the Mondulkiri Project and learn about the local elephant sanctuary.
    • Embark on a guided hike through a protected forest leading to a jungle lodge with panoramic views of the valley.
    • Meet the elephants and feed them fresh bananas while observing their natural behaviors.
  • Midday (9:00 – 12:00 PM):
    • Continue your elephant discovery walk through the sanctuary’s rainforest, with detailed insights on wildlife conservation.
  • Lunch (12:00 – 2:00 PM):
    • Enjoy a local Khmer meal at the sanctuary’s visitor hut by the river, then relax in a hammock while taking in the stunning jungle and mountain vistas.
  • Afternoon Session (2:00 – 3:00 PM):
    • Engage in an elephant bath and water play session at a natural river pool, assisted by local mahouts.
  • Evening:
    • Return to your hotel in Sen Monorom by 4:00–5:00 PM.

Day 5: Transfer to Siem Reap with a Stop at Preah Vihear

  • Early Departure: Leave Mondulkiri at 7:30 AM after breakfast.
  • Temple Visit: En route, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Preah Vihear Temple near the Thai border—a masterpiece of Khmer architecture.
  • Arrival in Siem Reap: Check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 6: Explore the Majestic Angkor Temples

  • Morning Pick-Up: Starting at 8:00 AM, begin your tour by car.
  • Temple Highlights:
    • Visit Angkor Wat, the iconic symbol of the Khmer Empire.
    • Explore Angkor Thom, including the striking Bayon with its giant faces, Baphuon with a 40-meter reclining Buddha, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.
    • Wander through Ta Prohm, famous for its entwining trees and roots.
  • Sunset: Conclude the day with a breathtaking sunset from Phnom Bakheng.
  • Tips:
    • You may choose to reverse the route to avoid crowds.
    • Dress modestly (shoulders covered, long pants or skirts) and respect the sacred monuments by not touching the sculptures.

Day 7: Discover Banteay Srei & Phnom Kulen National Park

  • Morning – Phnom Kulen National Park:
    • Travel by car to Phnom Kulen, the birthplace of the Khmer Kingdom (802 AD).
    • Visit the sacred pilgrimage site featuring a massive Reclining Buddha statue and take a refreshing swim in a waterfall’s natural pool.
    • Optionally tour the “Kulen Water” bottled water factory (weekdays only; closed on Sundays and public holidays).
  • Afternoon – Banteay Srei:
    • Explore the intricately carved pink sandstone temple known as “The Citadel of Women.”
    • Follow up with a visit to Banteay Samre temple.

Day 8: Departure & Farewell

  • Morning: Enjoy a free morning for last-minute exploration.
  • Check-Out: Ensure your room is vacated by noon. If your flight is later in the day, store your luggage at the hotel and take a final stroll.
  • Evening Transfer: Your transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport is arranged according to your flight schedule.
  • Extension Option: Contact us if you wish to extend your stay in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.

 

Note: you must leave your room before noon. If your flight is in the evening, you can leave your suitcases at the hotel reception for a last walk around town.

For any further inquiries or itinerary customization, please get in touch with our team. Enjoy your adventure!

 

Tour Details

Plan Your Cambodia Tour Today!

Banlung Nature Trekking Tours is a trusted local tour agency based in Banlung, Ratanakiri, dedicated to offering exceptional travel experiences in Cambodia. With our comprehensive range of meticulously designed tours, handpicked accommodations, and personalized service, we are your ideal partner for creating unforgettable journeys. Immerse yourself in Cambodia’s rich culture, explore its captivating history, marvel at its breathtaking natural beauty, and savor its exquisite cuisine with our tailor-made packages.

Private Cambodia Tours

Experience the country at your own pace with a private tour. Enjoy the comfort of having a dedicated guide and driver who will take you to all the must-see attractions while steering clear of the crowds. With the flexibility to adjust your itinerary as needed, you can make the most of your Cambodian adventure.

Customizable Itineraries

Prefer to design your own itinerary? We’re here to help! Simply provide your travel dates, interests, and budget using our easy-to-use form, and we’ll craft a personalized tour plan just for you. Expect a response within 12 hours as we work to tailor every detail to your preferences.

Hassle-Free Vacation Planning

Let us manage every aspect of your Cambodia vacation—from major planning to the smallest details—so you can enjoy a stress-free holiday. Our team continuously refines your itinerary until it meets your expectations, even while you’re on the road. For immediate assistance or to speak with a Destination Expert, connect with us via WhatsApp at +855882045888.

Plan your perfect Cambodia tour today with Banlung Nature Trekking Tours, and embark on an adventure that promises lasting memories and unparalleled experiences.

Tour Includes

  • Note: Accommodation and named hotel listed
    Accommodation and Breakfast: Mettavary Hotel/Standard (Phnom Penh)
    Accommodation and Breakfast: Le Tonle Guesthouse/Standard (Kratie)
  • Accommodation and breakfast: Nature Lodge/Bungalow (Mondulkiri)
  • Accommodation and breakfast: La Niche D’angkor Boutique Hotel/Deluxe (Siem Reap)
  • All sightseeing and transfer services as detailed in our itinerary
  • Accommodation with standard room in confirmed room category and named hotels if you choose this option.
  • English-speaking guides as listed [Guided tour]
  • Entrance fees Dolphin watching
  • And all other entrance fees as detailed in our itinerary.
  • Transportation:
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with drinking water during sightseeing.
  • Boat trip or kayaking to see the dolphins at Kampi. Note: Kayaking is available in (Nov-May)
  • Entrance fee and truck pick up to mountain Preah Vihear temple
  • Pick up from airport
  • Activities
  • Guided tour in Phnom Penh
  • Guided tour in Kratie
  • Guided tour in Kampong Cham
  • Guided Tour in Mondulkiri
  • Guided Tour in Preah Vihear
  • Guided Tour in Siem Reap

Tour Excludes

  • Lunch, Dinner and beverages.
  • Early Hotel check-in/ Late check-out
  • Any personal expenses
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips for guides & driver
  • Any other items not mentioned
  • International flight
  • Angkor Pass a day $ 37/person- 2-3 Days 62 $USD

Travel Map

Map Travel

Payment Options

+ Option 1 faster & easy : Available Bank transfer money by ( MoneyGram) or( Ria) you can download this App with your mobile phone method.

How  to complete form : with my Bank Account number 003412749 (USD dollar ) or Khmer Account number 003412769 KHR local currency (Riel)

Name Account : SOPHANNY CHROEUN
Bank Name: ABA ,Ratanakiri Branch, Cambodia.

+ Option 2: Bank transferred by SWIFT CODE: ABAAKHPP ( USD dollar only)
Email : info@cambodiajungletrekking.com
Quick reply WhatsApp or Telegram Click  chat : +855 882045888

Note: All tours deposit 50% of total price ,confirmation your booking guarantee, finally payment on arrival.

Tour Notes

Tour Highlights & Inclusions

  • Complimentary Drinking Water: Stay refreshed with unlimited drinking water provided throughout your tour.
  • Cool Water & Towels: Enjoy cool water and towels during the tour to keep you comfortable.
  • Itinerary Customization: The itinerary is as described, but you have the option to customize it to suit your interests.
  • Expert Guidance: Learn about the region’s rich history and culture with our friendly, knowledgeable guides.
  • Hotel Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast included at your hotel.
  • Departure & Transfer: Enjoy a free program before your evening transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport or Siem Reap. We will organize your transfer according to your flight schedule.
    • Note: You must check out of your room by noon. If your flight is in the evening, you can store your suitcases at the hotel reception and enjoy a final stroll around town.

 

Tour Video

Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)

At Adventure Travel Cambodia, your safety is our top priority. We continuously work to enhance your experience while ensuring you remain secure throughout your journey. To uphold the highest standards, we may adjust parts of the tour based on weather, terrain, seasonal conditions, or specific requests. Please note that any modifications initiated at your request might incur additional charges.

As with much of rural Cambodia, mosquitoes in the area may carry malaria—a potentially serious disease. We strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional about malaria prevention before your trip. Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is essential, and many travelers choose to take malaria prophylaxis. If you experience any symptoms after your visit, please seek medical attention immediately.

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Cambodia, but it’s a kind gesture that’s highly appreciated—especially since many service workers earn modest incomes. If you receive excellent service from waitstaff, drivers, guides, or hotel personnel, leaving a tip is a wonderful way to express your gratitude.

Here are some common recommendations:

  • Tour Guide: USD $15–20 per day
  • Driver: USD $5–10 per day
  • Restaurants: Approximately 10% of the bill
  • Hotels: Around USD $5 for bellhops and housekeeping

Ultimately, the amount is up to you and should reflect the quality of service you experienced.

Applying for a Cambodian visa is now easier than ever. Here’s a brief overview:

  • Visa on Arrival:
    • Available at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap International Airports as well as all international land borders.
    • You’ll need a valid passport and a 3×4 cm photo.
    • Fees are generally around USD 30 (cash only) at airports and USD 33 at selected land crossings.
  • E-Visa:
    • Complete the online form on the official website, pay by credit card, and upload a recent passport photo.
    • The e-visa is valid for 30 days, with approval typically within three business days.
    • Note: This option is unavailable for citizens from Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, and Sudan.
  • Embassy/Consulate:
    • You may also apply through a Cambodian embassy or consulate.
    • Tourist visas usually cost around USD 20, while business visas are around USD 25.
    • Visas can be extended at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh.

Most nationalities need a visa. However, citizens from Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Brunei, and Seychelles may have exemptions or specific allowances for a 30-day stay.

Always check the latest official guidelines for any updates on fees and procedures before you travel.

Travel insurance isn’t included, but we highly recommend that you secure your own comprehensive coverage. It’s a smart investment that guards against unexpected events, ensuring that your adventure remains worry-free.

In Cambodia, US dollars are widely accepted. When you withdraw cash using your international card, you typically receive US dollars rather than Khmer Riels. Just remember, only crisp, undamaged US-bills are accepted—coins and worn or torn notes may be rejected.

When visiting temples, both men and women are expected to dress modestly. This means wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. For comfort in Cambodia’s hot climate, consider loose, lightweight garments and comfortable shoes. Please note that the Apsara Authority, which oversees these sites, reserves the right to deny entry to visitors whose attire is deemed immodest.

On this immersive jungle trek, you’ll sleep in a protective hammock equipped with a personal mosquito net and simple forest furnishings, perfect for relaxing and enjoying meals. Depending on the weather, we might even add a canopy tent for extra comfort.

Since there are no conventional camping facilities, local villagers support our expedition by handling food storage and equipment. Your journey will be guided by experienced cooks, rangers, and an English-speaking guide who will set up your sleeping area and prepare delicious meals along the way. Keep in mind that everyone in the group will help carry some gear, such as a hammock and a modest amount of water.

Facilities are rustic: expect basic, “back-to-nature” toilets, and bathing takes place in a nearby stream, ensuring you experience the true essence of the jungle.

All meals are provided as outlined in the itinerary. Please note that our menu is standardized and cannot be customized for individual requests. If you are vegetarian, kindly inform us at the time of booking so we can make the necessary arrangements.

Cambodia’s climate features two distinct seasons. From November to April, the dry season generally offers ideal trekking conditions. Outside of these months, the wet season can bring heavy rains and occasional flooding. Accordingly, our treks are scheduled for about eight months of the year. Should adverse weather—particularly in mountainous areas—make conditions unsafe, we may need to adjust or postpone our itinerary. We always prioritize your safety while striving to keep any disruptions to your adventure to a minimum.

Cambodian roads can be rough and uneven, which may result in occasional delays. A little patience goes a long way in enhancing your travel experience in this beautiful country.

Payments can be made in cash (US dollars) directly to your guide before the tour begins. For multi-day or package tours, the total cost is quoted in USD. To secure your booking, a non-refundable deposit of 50% of the total tour price is required via bank transfer (details provided below). The remaining balance is due on arrival. Alternatively, if you prefer to pay in cash, the full amount must be settled either before the tour starts or upon arrival. Please note that any bank transfer fees are the responsibility of the sender.

Private Tour Price

Group of 2-15 Pax

Price from 2-3 pax $(USD dollar) 1,360(per person)

Min 4-15 pax

Prices from Max from 4-15 pax

$ (USD dollar)1,255 per person (Adult)–$(USD dollar)999 per children less than 12 age. (Private group including listed accommodation)

 

 

 

Group Tour Price

Destination

Phnom Penh-Kampong Cham-Kratie-Mondulkiri-Preah Vihear-Siem Reap

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